Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Wednesday, April 06, 2016

Purifi : Handheld Vacuum and Air Purifier In One

Purifi is a vacuum and air purifier in one. It fixes the inevitable problem of dust dispersal that occurs while vacuuming, and cleans the vacuum nozzle after use, all while recharging.

While researching opportunities for the improvement of the handheld vacuum, two insights were unearthed. First, just like surfaces, the air harbors toxins and bacteria as well – but not only from human skin cells and dust. After vacuuming, when releasing dust into a trash can from a vacuum container, the dust is also released into the air. The second insight was the dissonance in that the vacuum nozzle is the dirtiest part of the vacuum, and yet it touches the surfaces you wish to clean. A vacuum should not just be a tool for cleaning; it should, itself, be clean. Through ideation, the combination of a hand vacuum and air purifier developed. They already share components: both contain fans, motors, switches, filters, vents, and batteries. Combining them will be more sustainable.

While charging, the fan is automatically set to a slower, low-energy state for purification. The air flows in through front base vents, past the vacuum filter and into the fan chamber, then through the bottom air-dispel vacuum vent (which aligns with the base’s entry vent). The air is filtered again and exits through the back base vents, completely pure. The light changes from a dirty brown color, to yellow, to a bright green, indicating the process of purification. Once the light is green, the user can unplug the base until it is time to recharge the vacuum after use, in order to save energy and reduce the chance of damaging the battery by over-charging.

More images of Purifi:

The vacuum-purifier is designed to be eco-friendly. The vacuum’s outer shell is Tenite, a versatile and durable plastic derived from recycled material, manufactured by Eastman. The removal of a fan, motor, switch, and other components that would power an individual air purifier prevents unnecessary heavy metals from being manufactured. Instead of having to restock paper filters, the HEPA filter is washable and can be used for up to 5 years before replacement. This powerful battery lasts up to 30 minutes when paired with the vacuum’s motor before needing recharging.

Tuvie has received Purifi project from our ‘Submit A Design‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their design/concept for publication.